Let the numbers do the talking.
Ballwin, MO vs Cape Girardeau, MO
Ballwin, MO vs Cape Girardeau, MO: What the data shows
Ballwin, MO is in Ballwin, MO while Cape Girardeau, MO is in Cape Girardeau, MO — both in the same state. On home prices, Cape Girardeau, MO is the more affordable option at $192,900 median — $115,800 less than Ballwin, MO's $308,700. WYLT rates Ballwin, MO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Cape Girardeau, MO as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Ballwin, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Cape Girardeau, MO has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Ballwin, MO has Low flood risk and Cape Girardeau, MO has Low flood risk.
Ballwin, MO is the more walkable neighborhood. Ballwin, MO scores 8/100 (car-dependent) versus Cape Girardeau, MO's 6/100 (car-dependent).
| Category | Ballwin, MO | Cape Girardeau, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $309K | $193K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $834 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $109K ✓ Higher income | $65K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 8/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 34 min ✓ Shorter commute | 131 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | N/A | N/A |
| Best for | Families seeking a quiet suburbHomeowners on a stable incomePeople who can manage a car-dependent lifestyle | First‑time home buyersRetireesRemote workers |
Bottom line
Ballwin is the better choice for families and commuters who need relatively easy access to a city, despite its higher median home price. Cape Girardeau is a more budget-friendly option suitable for retirees, remote workers, or those who prioritize a quiet, low-risk environment over access to urban amenities. For most people, Ballwin's trade-offs are more manageable than Cape Girardeau's more isolated location.
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